Tag Archives: dragon

November 30, 2023 · 7:00 am

Kaida Brightscales and the Rare Pollinators: Beehive Secrets 2 by Xanda Monteiro (Book Spotlight)

NEW EDITION! 

Step into a world filled with wonder and enchantment, where a young dragon’s unquenchable curiosity meets a promise that must be kept.

The meadow, once a vibrant haven of buzzing life, is now facing a new threat. Kaida and Bella return to their beloved meadow, only to discover a troubling silence—the bees have vanished. As they embark on a quest to uncover the mystery, they stumble upon distressing events. A farmer’s actions threaten their meadow’s delicate ecosystem; hedges, home to the Carder Bees, are being cut down, leaving our bee friends homeless and vulnerable.

Bella and Kaida have made a promise to help their buzzing friends and are set on a path fraught with challenges—trampled hives, pesticide exposure, and relentless destruction.

United by a common goal, can our colorful friends find a miraculous solution to save the bees?

Kaida Brightscales and the Rare Pollinators is the second book in the Beehive Secrets series for children aged 4-6. If you or your child like vivid and beautiful illustrations, fun ways to learn about nature, and making new friends, then you’ll love Xanda Monteiro’s tale of teamwork towards harmony.

Get your copy of Kaida Brightscales and the Rare Pollinators today, and join the quest to protect the meadow and make a difference in the world!

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Readers’ Thoughts

 

“Beautifully written and with bright illustrations, children will love this new tale with Kaida Brightscales and Bella. In this adventure, the two friends team up to protect the meadow and save the bees. I liked that the book included additional free resources about the world of bees and a glossary.” — ACG ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

 

“My 4yo loved the story!”  — Linaewe  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

 

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Xanda’s story is one of a lifelong explorer, born in Africa with a sense of adventure that took her far and wide. She spent countless hours getting her clothes ripped in tree branches and her knees scratched, but the magic of discovering new places made it all worth it. 

As she grew older, Xanda’s curiosity led her to chase eclipses and capture the perfect shot with her camera. Her passion for nature and fascination with bees inspired her to write a series of books for children about their struggles and possible solutions. 

When she’s not writing, Xanda can be found practising Qi Gong and meditation to deepen her understanding of the world and herself. She loves spending time with friends from all over the world and is always seeking out new experiences and adventures. 

Xanda’s African roots instilled in her a deep appreciation for the beauty of the natural world and the wonder that can be found in everyday moments. She believes that life is meant to be lived to the fullest, and that we can do so without causing harm to other beings. 

If you’re looking for a guide to help you explore the wonders of the world, Xanda is the perfect companion. With her infectious enthusiasm and boundless curiosity, she will show you the beauty in even the most ordinary things. So come along and let’s discover the magic together – just watch out for those tree branches and knee scratches! 

Author Website
Amazon Author page
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November 17, 2023 · 7:00 am

Kaida Brightscales and the Magical Meadows: Beehive Secrets 1 by Xanda Monteiro (Book Spotlight)

NEW EDITION

A world brimming with flowers and colors. An inquisitive young dragon. A sick friend in need of help.

Kaida Brightscales loves to explore. And when the shimmering winged creature crosses paths with a busy butterfly and a focused ant, she’s delighted to discover that they’re working hard at very important jobs. But after she spots her sick bee friend, she’s not sure how to help her feel better.

Bothered by the news that all the bees in the hive are ill, Kaida asks her insect buddies to help her find some medicine. And as the thoughtful youngster grows to understand more about how nature needs to be in harmony, she realizes she’s taken on a really big job.

Can she and her tiny chums stay strong and get everyone buzzing back to health?

Kaida Brightscales and the Magical Meadows is the first book in the Beehive Secrets series for children ages 4-6. If you or your child like vivid and beautiful illustrations, fun ways to learn about nature, and making new friends, then you’ll love Xanda Monteiro’s tale of teamwork.

Buy Kaida Brightscales and the Magical Meadows to fly to the rescue today!

Amazon Purchase Link

 

@lightshadowandink

Kaida Brightscales TikTok#booktok #readersoftiktok #realmewishlist #readysetlift #readertok

♬ original sound – Xanda Monteiro – Xanda Monteiro

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Readers’ Thoughts! 

“We had lots of fun reading this book, my 4yo is a fan!”
— Linaewe  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

 

“This was a beautiful little book. The general appearance was gorgeous – adorable illustrations of Kaida the dragon and her friends, and I loved how colourful it was. The pages were so full of beautiful bright colours. The story itself was also really sweet, and a fun way for children to learn about pollination.” 

— Kelly ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

 

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Xanda’s story is one of a lifelong explorer, born in Africa with a sense of adventure that took her far and wide. She spent countless hours getting her clothes ripped in tree branches and her knees scratched, but the magic of discovering new places made it all worth it. 

As she grew older, Xanda’s curiosity led her to chase eclipses and capture the perfect shot with her camera. Her passion for nature and fascination with bees inspired her to write a series of books for children about their struggles and possible solutions. 

When she’s not writing, Xanda can be found practising Qi Gong and meditation to deepen her understanding of the world and herself. She loves spending time with friends from all over the world and is always seeking out new experiences and adventures. 

Xanda’s African roots instilled in her a deep appreciation for the beauty of the natural world and the wonder that can be found in everyday moments. She believes that life is meant to be lived to the fullest, and that we can do so without causing harm to other beings. 

If you’re looking for a guide to help you explore the wonders of the world, Xanda is the perfect companion. With her infectious enthusiasm and boundless curiosity, she will show you the beauty in even the most ordinary things. So come along and let’s discover the magic together – just watch out for those tree branches and knee scratches! 

Author Website
Amazon Author page
Twitter Link

 

 

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August 14, 2023 · 7:00 am

Toot the Flying Droodle: Part Dragon – Part Poodle (The Droodle Tales) by Julian Boram (Book Review)

Meet TOOT the DROODLE
Part Dragon-Part Poodle

He’s a small little thingy that’s kind and sweet
With a curly little tail, fuzzy ears and woolly feet
TOOT longs to fly UP, UP into the sky
He just can’t do it and he can’t figure out why

Come along and join TOOT on his uplifting adventure and find out if three magical beasties can help make his dreams come true.

Amazon Kindle Link

Amazon Print Link

 

 

 

(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 

 

In the fantasy world, you never know what creature an author will come up with next. This unknown brings excitement, joy, and entertainment to many. Julian Boram, author and illustrator, has given readers a mythical being combining a dragon and a poodle. DROODLE, for short. Not a likely pairing, but the mash-up created a unique magical beast that children will love. 

Toot, the DROODLE, longs to soar like the other DROODLES. He wants to play with the others in the sky. Watching them from afar makes him feel lonely and sad. Many readers will empathize with Toot’s predicament. It’s never easy to watch others having fun and feel excluded. 

Toot isn’t the only animal in this imaginative tale with a mind-blogging mash-up. Children will meet SNOWL: part owl and part snake. The combination was weirdly wonderful. The owl’s forked tongue was oddly cute. Readers will also encounter a PHOW and a SWAT. You’ll have to read the story to discover their fantastical blends! 

As Toot chases after his kite, young listeners will be amazed by the gigantic flowers, bees, and even the trees! Nothing is ordinary in Toot the Flying Droodle. Julian Boram has also included a bonus game: find the DROODLE egg on every page. 

If your child is struggling with “fitting in” or having issues with a task, read them this book. If your child loves fantasy stories, again, read them this book. Toot the Flying Droodle is a fantastic, imaginative story that your child will want to read over and over! 

Amazon’s recommended reading age: 2-7 years. 

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score:  ❤❤❤❤❤

Amazon Kindle Link

Amazon Print Link

 

 

Meet the Author

An Aussie, currently living in London, Julian spends his time as a husband and father of two girls, and as a senior executive helping businesses grow in a new sustainable era.

Julian is an Award Winning Children’s Book Illustrator and has won several awards for his art and his large-scale portrait entries in the acclaimed Archibald and Moran Prize competitions have been written up in major newspapers.

Amazon Author Page Link

 RainbowdropBooks.com

 

 

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June 30, 2023 · 7:00 am

Beehive Secrets and the Rare Pollinators by Xanda Monteiro (Book Review)

 

Soar back into the enchanting world of BEEHIVE SECRETS with “Rare Pollinators,” the latest adventure featuring the brave bee Bella and her kind and helpful friend, Kaida the dragon. As their beloved meadow faces threats from disruptive human activities, our dynamic duo embarks on an exciting quest to uncover a mystical natural solution tucked away in the vast tapestry of nature. Will Kaida fulfil her promise to Bella? Join the fun in this whirlwind adventure, brimming with catchy rhymes, vibrant illustrations, and lovable characters. Along the way, learn about biodiversity, unity, and how every one of us can contribute to the preservation of our environment.

Are you ready to unlock the secret hidden within Bella and Kaida’s meadow? Then it’s time to spread your wings, pick up your copy of “Rare Pollinators” today, and dive headfirst into the world of bees and dragons. Get set for a buzz-worthy, fire-breathing escapade—it’s a magical journey you wouldn’t want to miss!

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 

 

Kaida and Bella (bee) face a new problem in Beehive Secrets and the Rare Pollinators. The meadow is quiet…too quiet. The bees should be out and about, collecting pollen and making things sprout, but they aren’t. Something is amiss! Kaida and Bella set off to find the missing bees. 

During their hunt, we discover which bees make a nest in the hedges and why Bella is freaking out when she spots a farmer trimming one (hedge). Travesty strikes again at the farm, but the real learning moment comes when Mrs. Kee lands on a flower. Children will learn new terminology: pesticide. Children will watch and discover how the “sticky goo” affects insects/bugs. 

Pesticide is not the only new word that children will learn. Mycelium is explained in simple terms that preschoolers can quickly grasp. The writer did include other words that might need further explanation, depending on a reader’s age. (No glossary was included.)

In Beehive Secrets and the Magical Meadows, Bella was feeling green. This time, Kaida and Bella are on a mission to save the meadow! Beehive Secrets and the Rare Pollinators has stunning illustrations and would make a great addition to a science unit. 

After reading the story, ask students what other things might have bees and buggy friends. Please make a list of ways to protect our insects too. Teach them to respect our nature—our planet as a whole. 

Amazon recommends this book for ages 3-6.

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score:  ❤❤❤❤

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Xanda was born in the small town of Beira on the East Coast of Mozambique, a place that holds a special place in my heart. It’s home to the magnificent Farol do Macuti, a lighthouse that has guided countless ships to safety over the years.

One of my fondest memories is the excitement my dad brought home with a new toy – the first Polaroid camera! I still remember the anticipation as we waited for the picture to develop on the square paper. To make the image last, we had to spread the fixer over the picture, which had a distinct smell that remains etched in my mind from childhood. It was an unnatural sharp, chemical and fruity sweet odour, but to us, it meant preserving memories that would last a lifetime.

But my childhood memories were not limited to photography. It was also with my dad that I experienced my first solar eclipse, an unforgettable sight that left me in awe of the natural world. Looking back, those memories of my childhood in Mozambique still fill me with a sense of wonder and appreciation for the beauty of life.

Growing up in Africa was an adventure in itself. I loved nothing more than exploring the vast landscape around me, always eager to discover new and exciting things. But with that excitement came a hint of danger. Some places and animals I encountered were quite hazardous, adding an extra layer of thrill to my explorations.

Today, I still hold a deep appreciation for the wonders of nature and the joy of exploration, and have added meditation and QiGong to my life as a way to continue that sense of wonder and connection to the world around me.

Author Website
Amazon Author page
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June 26, 2023 · 7:00 am

Beehive Secrets and the Magical Meadows by Xanda Monteiro (Book Review)

Kaida Brightscales, a curious dragon, loves exploring the meadows near her cave. One day, she meets Bella the Bee, who is feeling sick, and she is not the only one. With the help of a hardworking ant and a knowledgeable butterfly, Kaida sets out on a mission to cure Bella and her friends of their mysterious sickness. Along the way, Kaida learns about the importance of pollination and the hard work of bees.

This delightful book for children ages 3 to 6 is filled with beautiful illustrations and a captivating story that teaches important lessons about empathy, teamwork, and the wonders of nature.

Join Kaida on her adventure as she uncovers the secrets of the beehive and learns about the power of friendship and collaboration.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 

 

Children are going to adore Tamar Blaauw’s beautiful illustrations. The artist couldn’t have selected a better collection of colors for the main star, Kaida. The dragon practically shimmered off the pages. I thought shading specific text in bright colors was an ingenious idea. Words that pop always capture a reader’s eye. 

In Beehive Secrets and the Magical Meadows, Kaida is fascinated by insects. First, she crosses paths with a very busy butterfly. Through their interaction, children will discover why the butterfly flutters from flower to flower and new terminology will be introduced: pollinate. 

Next up, Kaida spots a tiny ant carrying a berry. Through their talk, we learn where the ant is going and why. Of course, Kaida offers her assistance to the tired insect. Then, Kaida spots a sad bee holding a metal bucket of nectar. The poor bee admits to feeling under the weather. Kaida, the kind-hearted dragon she is, helps the ailing insect complete his job. She also seeks the help of her new buggy friends (ant and butterfly), and together, they work as a team to help Bella the bee feel better. 

Beehive Secrets and the Magical Meadows is a story teaching children to be kind and helpful. It also educates young readers about why these insects carry out the jobs they do. It does end without a complete resolution; Bella (bee) is still seeking a cure for her sickness. Even though I wanted a more unified conclusion, the story got its point across: “While the bees in the story may face challenges like sickness, this is ultimately a tale of hope and the power of working together to overcome adversity.”

Amazon recommends Beehive Secrets and the Magical Meadows for ages 3-6.

 

9/4/23: The book’s title, age bracket and synopsis has been updated since I read the book and created my post. I have not read it again. I have not updated my review to reflect any changes. 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score:  ❤❤❤❤

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Xanda was born in the small town of Beira on the East Coast of Mozambique, a place that holds a special place in my heart. It’s home to the magnificent Farol do Macuti, a lighthouse that has guided countless ships to safety over the years.

One of my fondest memories is the excitement my dad brought home with a new toy – the first Polaroid camera! I still remember the anticipation as we waited for the picture to develop on the square paper. To make the image last, we had to spread the fixer over the picture, which had a distinct smell that remains etched in my mind from childhood. It was an unnatural sharp, chemical and fruity sweet odour, but to us, it meant preserving memories that would last a lifetime.

But my childhood memories were not limited to photography. It was also with my dad that I experienced my first solar eclipse, an unforgettable sight that left me in awe of the natural world. Looking back, those memories of my childhood in Mozambique still fill me with a sense of wonder and appreciation for the beauty of life.

Growing up in Africa was an adventure in itself. I loved nothing more than exploring the vast landscape around me, always eager to discover new and exciting things. But with that excitement came a hint of danger. Some places and animals I encountered were quite hazardous, adding an extra layer of thrill to my explorations.

Today, I still hold a deep appreciation for the wonders of nature and the joy of exploration, and have added meditation and QiGong to my life as a way to continue that sense of wonder and connection to the world around me.

Author Website
Amazon Author page
Twitter Link

 

 

 

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